Just because it’s winter, don’t discount beauty in the landscape.

The Japanese apricot tree, native to Asia, brings a little cheerfulness to late winter—and its blossoms offer a preview of spring. 

Extremely underutilized, this tree is not typically seen unless one visits public gardens. Here at the ANC Memorial Arboretum, we have planted two Japanese apricot trees outside of the entrance to Columbarium Court 7.

Winter is when this Prunus tree is at its utmost beauty. Naked stems are covered in soft, pale pink flowers for several weeks. These pretty blossoms are easy to see because the tree leafs out much later. Ping pong-size apricot fruits are a bonus once flowering is through.

We hope the beauty of this sweet little tree brings joy to you.